Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Review of The Scandal of It All by Sophie Jordan *The Rogue Files"

Leave it to Sophie Jordan to write a truly astounding story that is a page turner you don't want to put down! This one is unique in that the heroine is older than the hero. Graciela, the Duchess of Autenberry has been a widow for 10 years. Her marriage was an unhappy one, the only good that came out of it was her daughter and her step-children Enid and Marcus. If you read the first book in this series you have already met Marcus, the Duke Of Autenberry and his best friend Colin, the Earl of Strickland. Don't worry if you haven't, this book stands alone as a must read.

Ela decides that it is time to start living for herself and her best friend talks her into going to a club where you can indulge in almost any fantasy you desire. As soon as she enters she realizes that this is a mistake but she cannot seem to move. All around her people are engaging in all kinds of sexual acts that she didn't even know existed.

Colin, Earl of Strickland is no stranger to the sophisticated and jaded woman who frequent this club. He is just strolling through a room when he notices a woman standing in the middle of the room looking like she was lost and frightened. Being a Gentleman he approaches her to see if he can be of assistance. Ela is horrified that Colin is here. He comes to her rescue and keeps Marcus from discovering that his step-mother is here. There is an instant sexual attraction that scares Ela and she refuses to entertain any relationship with Colin. He is younger and she has never thought of him in that way until he awakens feelings that she never experienced with her husband. Colin is fascinated with Ela and realizes that he was always attracted to her but kept himself from thinking about her as anything than his best friends step-mother. Now he has had a taste of Ela and will not give up until he has her in his bed. Can Colin convince Ela that they should be together?

I have everyone of Sophie's Historical Romances. Her writing is intricate, intelligent and addictive. This story is not your typical romance novel. The age difference is just one of the many plot twists that make this a wonderful and compelling read. I loved the journey of discovery Ela went through and how Colin was determined to make her see that their was a future for them. I admit I teared up a couple of times, especially the last three chapters and the epilogue. Don't skip a word of this book or you will miss a splendid love story that will leave thoroughly satisfied but asking for more.